Shopping on Taobao, JD.com, or 1688 gives you unbeatable variety and value. However, for international buyers, one significant concern remains: What if the item arrives defective, incorrect, or damaged?
That’s why the SUGARGOO QC (Quality Check) service is designed to protect you. Below is a complete FAQ to help you understand how it works.
1. What is the SUGARGOO QC service?
The quality check service takes place after your items arrive at the SUGARGOO warehouse but before they are shipped overseas. Warehouse staff confirm that the style, color, size, quantity, and overall appearance of the item match your order.
2. Which products are eligible for QC?
✅ Covered: clothing, shoes, bags, and suitcases.
❌ Not covered: sealed items, products with sealing strips, or unopened factory packaging (only exterior inspection is done).
3. What free QC services are included?
- Shopping Agent Orders (Daigou): Once the item is delivered to the SUGARGOO warehouse and signed in, you will automatically receive 5 free QC photos per item. No extra action required.
- Parcel Forwarding Orders: When placing your order, you must agree to the parcel forwarding inspection rules. Once agreed upon, the warehouse performs a QC inspection and uploads the photos.
- Parcel Photo: All orders include 1 free parcel photo showing the final packed condition before shipping.
4. What if I need more detailed inspection photos?
You can purchase the Personalized Photography add-on service for extra QC photos, close-ups, or high-resolution shots. This option is especially popular for reselling luxury goods or delicate items.
5. What if the QC photos are blurry?
If your free QC photos or parcel photo are unclear, contact SUGARGOO Customer Service. The warehouse will take them back for free.
6. How does QC differ for 1688 orders compared to Taobao or JD orders?
- 1688 orders with guarantee icons (e.g., “7-day Replacement”, “60-day Replacement”):
- Quantity is checked against the packaging.
- Random inspection: 5% of items (min. 5, max. 20) are checked for style, size, color, and model.
- 1688 orders without guarantee icons:
- Only the quantity is checked against the box. No random inspection.
- Taobao/JD orders:
- All items checked for style, size, color, quantity, and model.
- Sealed/strip items → exterior inspection only.
7. Can parcel forwarding (transit) orders also get QC?
Yes. As long as you agree to the parcel forwarding QC rules, SUGARGOO staff will inspect based on the product info you provide (links, images, notes). If details are missing, only the available information will be checked. Sealed packages → exterior check only.
8. Will SUGARGOO open original packaging?
- Normally, sealed products remain unopened, and only exterior QC photos are taken.
- If there is a risk of prohibited or sensitive goods, SUGARGOO reserves the right to unseal and inspect.
9. What is the QC process?
- The item arrives at the warehouse (domestic delivery typically takes 3–5 days).
- Package signing and damaged-package screening.
- Prohibited items screening.
- QC checks based on product type and order notes.
- QC photos and/or videos uploaded to your SUGARGOO account.
- You review and confirm items, then proceed to consolidation or shipping.
10 . How does SUGARGOO handle storage and packaging?
- Standard: outer carton removed, item repacked in a SUGARGOO ziplock bag.
- Exceptions: fragile, oversized, or when the box itself is part of the product → original packaging kept.
- All stored items must meet international shipping requirements (air, sea, or land).
11. What are the limitations of QC?
- Electronic products: functionality is not tested.
- Branded goods: authenticity is not guaranteed.
- Defects consistent with seller’s description are not covered.
- Special orders (1 CNY auctions, lucky bags, fake links, mosaic images) → only checked for obvious issues like stains, discoloration, or damage.
12. Why is SUGARGOO QC important for overseas buyers?
- Avoid costly mistakes like wrong size, color, or missing items.
- Save on international return costs, which are expensive and time-consuming.
- Protect high-value purchases such as luxury goods, collectibles, and non-returnable custom products.
13. How much does SUGARGOO QC cost?
- Basic QC photos & parcel photo: Free.
- Personalized Photography: Paid add-on service.
14. Can QC be combined with other services?
Yes. Many overseas buyers combine QC with:
- Package consolidation (to reduce shipping costs).
- Shipping insurance (to protect against loss or damage).
- Add-on protective packaging (for fragile or high-value goods).
15. How do I request QC on my orders?
- Agent orders: QC is automatically included. After warehouse sign-in, you will get 5 free QC photos per item.
- Parcel forwarding orders: You must agree to the parcel forwarding inspection rules before submitting the order. The warehouse then performs the QC inspection and uploads photos.
- Review your QC photos/videos in your SUGARGOO account → confirm before approving shipment.
16. If QC finds a problem, can I return the item?
Yes. One of the biggest benefits of SUGARGOO quality check is that issues are found before international shipping begins.
- For agent orders, SUGARGOO staff can assist in communicating with the Taobao, JD, or 1688 seller to request a return or replacement.
- For parcel forwarding orders, return options depend on the seller’s policies and the inspection agreement. ⚠️ Note: Once an item leaves China and enters international transit, returns are usually not possible.
✅ Pro Tip: Always review your QC photos carefully. This is your final opportunity to request a return or replacement before incurring international shipping costs.
👉 Related guides for overseas buyers:
- Understanding How to Buy From Taobao Using a SUGARGOO Agent
- Understanding How to Buy from 1688 via SUGARGOO
- How Does Package Consolidation Work at SUGARGOO?
- How to Choose the Best International Shipping Method: Courier, Air Freight, or Sea Freight?
- How Long Does SUGARGOO Keep Items in the Warehouse?
- Ship From Taobao With SUGARGOO: Tips to Save and Clear Customs
- How Does Shipping Insurance Work? SUGARGOO’s Insured Parcel Service